“Since our founding 70 years ago, West Fraser has recognised its responsibility to the environment and society, while delivering solid financial performance. Guided by our values and leveraging strategic partnerships, we aim to integrate sustainability across all aspects of our business.” - A full copy of West Fraser's carbon negative fact sheet can be downloaded here.
West Fraser’s UK operations are officially verified as carbon negative, demonstrating industry leadership at a time when the world is rallying around the 2026 World Environment Day (5 June) theme: Restoring Land. Building Resilience. Securing Our Future.
For 70 years, West Fraser has recognised its responsibility to the environment and society. Today, that commitment is reflected in a sustainability strategy that integrates science-based action, global standards, and forward‑looking innovation.
Leading with carbon-negative production
All UK‑manufactured West Fraser wood panel products are certified as net carbon negative—locking up more CO₂e than is emitted during their production. For specifiers, developers and builders, this means the simple choice of a West Fraser board can actively contribute to carbon reduction in construction.
This performance is supported by substantial carbon sequestration:
- 1.1 million tonnes of CO₂e are stored annually within West Fraser’s European operations.
- West Fraser’s UK‑made OSB products hold an A+ rating in the BRE Green Guide—the highest possible achievement.
Advancing renewable energy and circular manufacturing
Reducing reliance on fossil fuels remains central to the company’s strategy. Globally:
- Three‑quarters of the company’s renewable energy usage is derived from biomass.
- An additional 4.5% comes from renewable sources such as solar.
- Across Europe, 100% of grid‑purchased electricity is certified as renewable, sourced from wind, hydro and solar generation.
These actions directly support the restoration and resilience objectives of World Environment Day 2026 by promoting low‑carbon production and improved resource efficiency.
Sustainable forestry supporting global land restoration
A cornerstone of West Fraser’s environmental stewardship is responsible forest management, contributing to long‑term ecosystem health and land restoration:
- 72.4 million seedlings are planted annually in Canada, with an additional 2 million in the United States.
- Less than 1% of the company’s managed forest areas are harvested each year, enabling natural regeneration and sustainable harvesting cycles.
- The company has achieved a 22% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 emissions, alongside a 13% reduction in Scope 3 emissions.
These results demonstrate meaningful progress toward restoring landscapes, strengthening ecosystem resilience and supporting a low‑carbon future.
Building with purpose
West Fraser continues to encourage the construction sector to take part in climate‑positive building practices.
“Build with purpose – All our UK‑made engineered wood panels are proudly net carbon negative and can offset building emissions.”
As the world marks World Environment Day 2026, West Fraser stands ready to partner with industry, government and communities seeking measurable, science‑driven solutions to land restoration, carbon reduction and climate resilience.
For further information, call 01786 812 921 or visit https://uk.westfraser.com/
